Instead of postponing or providing no treatment at all, treating cattle for fluke at housing can aid in accelerating growth and lowering stress levels in the animals.
Because a cow's liver is big and can support a heavier fluke burden, abrupt deaths are uncommon in cattle.
Subclinical illness brought on by a fluke, however, is possible and can be expensive due to the influence it can have on lowered weight gain.
Why treat for fluke at housing?
Treating cattle for liver fluke at housing will control fluke picked up during the grazing season, enabling a better housing transition. No fluke treatment has persistence, meaning cattle can become infected with fluke immediately after treatment.
Treating at housing will also enable cattle to be better prepared for the stress and challenges of housing. Further treatment with an adulticide later in housing means in the spring you will be turning out clean cattle, which will reduce the burden on the pasture and help protect any sheep on the farm.
It is vital to ensure a seamless transition from grazing to housing and winter diet to prevent a check in growth.
Should we test for fluke before treating at housing?
It is always best to test regularly so that you have up-to-date information on the current fluke challenge on farm. However, some underlying fluke may not always be picked up with a copro-antigen test. This is because the volume of faeces in cattle has a dilution effect meaning the test is not as sensitive in cattle as it is in sheep.
If you are in a fluke-risk area and have wet areas on your farm, then there’s a high chance your cattle could be at risk of fluke. If there is no need for fluke control but there is a need to treat for worm, lungworm and lice then CYDECTIN Cattle Pour-On is an option and can be used up to 5 weeks pre-housing without a need to retreat throughout the housing period.
